New rules won’t
make road safer

In a well-meaning but illogical reaction to numerous car wrecks on Kaukonahua Road, some residents and lawmakers are calling for changes such as making it a one-way road, banning all passing, and lowering the speed limit.

Placing restrictions on all drivers isn't going to change one simple fact: Carloads of teen-agers and others are going to continue to kill themselves and other people through their own reckless actions. If drivers aren't going to follow the most common-sense guidelines -- don't risk killing yourself and your friends by driving excessively fast or under the influence of drugs -- what makes anyone think they'd suddenly obey a lower speed limit or avoid passing where the state decides it's dangerous?

Parents should take responsibility for teaching their children common sense and refuse to let them drive if they can't prove they're mature enough to handle it. Driving isn't a teen-ager's right -- it's a privilege that should be earned. The rest of us responsible drivers need not be punished or restricted for their mistakes.

--Nancy Christenson McNamee

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